Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Kendra Murphy

Date

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Liberal Studies

Department

Liberal Studies

Committee Chair

Gretchen Peterson

Committee Member

Jeremy Killian

Committee Member

Joy Goldsmith

Abstract

Lifestyle-related health problems remain a leading cause of chronic illness in the United States, creating a need for more effective communication of health information. However, the mechanisms that influence how individuals understand and use health information are not yet fully understood. This exploratory study investigates the intersections of statistical health literacy, emotions, and health decision-making from an interdisciplinary perspective. Guided by prior literature suggesting potential relationships among these factors, the study hypothesized that statistical literacy and emotional responses would modify responses to the form of health information presentation, affect the believability and motivational impact of the information, and influence health decisions. A vignette experiment paired with a questionnaire was used to test these hypotheses. However, the study's findings did not substantiate these predicted relationships. Methodological challenges likely contributed to these results. Nevertheless, the findings highlight the need for more refined research and a deeper understanding of the emotional dimensions of health information engagement. This study underscores the importance of continuing interdisciplinary investigations into how statistical literacy and emotional experiences shape health behaviors, suggesting directions for future research and methodological development.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.

Notes

Open Access

Download

Share

COinS